Ransomware attacks are nothing new. But taking a look at the extent of damage ransomware has caused in just the past year, it's clear we still have a long way to go before IT security is foolproof.

2. Is Bad Rabbit a big deal? +

Sharing close ties with the infamous ransomware Petya that hit networks in July of 2017, Bad Rabbit has been spreading via phony Adobe Flash updates. Once it successfully infiltrates a system and encrypts victims' data, it starts to infect the network using the EternalRomance exploit. Subsequently, users find themselves unable to access their data unless they pay the hackers' ransom.

3. If I'm infected with Bad Rabbit, should I pay the ransom? +

In short, no. Don't give in to the perpetrators' demands at any cost. There is no guarantee that your files will be recovered, and paying ransoms emboldens hackers, funds their illicit activities, and continues the vicious cycle of cyber attacks.

4. How can I protect myself from Bad Rabbit? +

There are a few key ways to defend your organization from ransomware attacks like Bad Rabbit:

Back up your files

Patch vulnerabilities

Enable email filtering

Provide users with the least amount of privilege possible

Educate end users

Whitelist applications

5. Is Bad Rabbit still a threat? +

Based on its infection rate, it appears Bad Rabbit's influence has dwindled quickly. Although Bad Rabbit is almost at the end of its life, it's important to remember that ransomware tends to spread like weeds. If you pull one up, another grows in its place. That's why it's best to be proactive and follow the protective measures listed above.

FileAudit Plus, your ransomware solution.

Preventing a ransomware attack is possible, all you need is a robust file system monitoring, alerting, and response solution in place. FileAudit Plus, a real-time ransomware alert tool, swiftly detects and responds to ransomware attacks using mass access alerts coupled with an automated threat response system.